Follow the Leader

Today, I had a 15 minute phone call as part of a writing program I’m enrolled in.  

I had the privilege of speaking with Jeff Goins, a content creator whose work I’ve followed for years.  I’ve read and listened to his books, purchased several of his online programs, and seen him speak live.

Jeff was kind and helpful, just like I’d imagined he would be.  We discussed my next project, and how I will approach it through the structure and systematic approach outlined in his new course.  I left the call with a solid gameplan, and a renewed appreciation for the value of connecting with people who have done something that I want to do.

In this case, I was able to speak with a writer who works hard at his craft.  Over time, he’s become successful, and now a large part of his business is helping other writers to do the same.

Jeff Goins is a leader for other artists, particularly writers.

After our call, I reflected upon the various people who have had an impact on me, personally and professionally.

I’ve learned from many leaders as I’ve studied writing, coaching, and business.  Some have had a significant impact on my work and really, on my life in general.  Dan Miller comes to mind.

These are people who don’t really know me personally, but I feel as if I know them, since I’ve read so much of their work, listened to their podcasts, studied their courses, and even attended their conferences.

The magic with leadership is this:  

Once you’re an adult, you get to choose your leaders.  

These leaders might be accessible in person, online, or simply by studying their work.

You’re looking for someone who has had a measure of success in an area that you would like to emulate.  I wouldn’t go so far as to call them gurus, or even necessarily mentors, but I would definitely call them people of influence.  Teachers.

And not only can you choose your leaders, but you can choose what to take away from their examples and their content.  If it applies to you, great!  If not, no problem.  Take what is useful to you.

You may not agree with everything your leaders say, do, or think … and that’s OK!  These are human beings, not perfect beings.  And you can still like them and learn from them.

It’s always your responsibility to think for yourself and make your own decisions.  

Choose your leaders wisely, and always maintain your boundaries.  With that caveat, I am grateful for the leaders I’ve been able to learn from.

We are always growing and learning.  It’s a privilege to choose our teachers, our leaders, and continue on the journey.  I’m looking forward to the writing process that I will experience as I begin my next project, which will take me through the end of this year.  

Who have you chosen to learn from as you grow and develop your creative skills?